We are all aware of the dangers of being a Formula 1 driver. This is exactly why the sport has worked tirelessly to improve the safety of the driver every passing year. The Halo device is a byproduct of these efforts. However, sometimes one aspect takes over the other in the eyes of the lawmakers and compromises a goal they set out to achieve. Whenever drivers notice something like this, they raise their voices. Prominently, Lewis Hamilton has levied several verbal beatings on some FIA changes in the past. Now, even Charles Leclerc has picked up the same baton on a debatable sporting change.

This change is the ban on tire blankets. While these tire blankets don’t seem to be a big deal, the source of this possible rule change is sustainability and cost-cutting. Despite the budget cap, the cost-cutting measures might extinguish the idea of pre-heated tires during the race. It might seem like a small step, but the environmental and financial impact is massive. However, according to the drivers and the teams, the literal impact will be greater. This is exactly what Charles Leclerc explained as well to the media too.

According to Formula Passion, Leclerc warned of the impending dangers of this change at the Canadian GP presser. He stated, “There are four or five corners which are very difficult. The tires must come up to temperature. When you are alone on the track it is not a problem. But of course, if you’re racing other cars, it becomes a very difficult thing to handle. If four or five curves remain, even in cold conditions, then that’s something we could consider. But obviously, with very cold conditions I expect this warm-up period to be much longer, and therefore it could become difficult.” [Translated via Google]

Read More: Why F1’s Tire Blankets Will Soon Be Old News With Game-Changing Ban

Everyone can envision this dreadful scenario coming to life, even Pirelli, which is why we are testing the 2024 tires with a handful of drivers. However, they are facing plenty of criticism until they can showcase these test results. In fact, The Ferrari man isn’t alone in this assessment as Hamilton, four months ago, expressed the same concerns about this possible rule change.

Lewis Hamilton initiated the opposition toward the tire-blanket rule change

The Mercedes man is always the one to speak about the issues that concern him. Most times, it earns him criticism. However, in this scenario, the Brit is within his rights to express concern. The drivers also agree as the Brit has only received support for the tire blanket smear campaign.

Hamilton said, “I think it’s dangerous. I’ve tested the no blankets, and there is going to be an incident at some stage. So, I think it is the wrong decision. You have to drive multiple laps to get the tyres to work. The whole argument is that taking away the blankets is going more sustainable and more green. But in actual fact we just burn more fuel to get the temperature into the tyres.”

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Both Lewis Hamilton & Charles Leclerc are spot on with their assessment of the possible scenarios from this rule change. Let’s hope the voice of the drivers can make an impact on the vote.